Ben Robinson

Breckland councillors have approved a 236-acre solar farm between Beeston and Gressenhall near Dereham, Norfolk. The development will be close to the planned Dykewood and High Grove solar farms and six miles from the proposed Droves scheme, with some projects sharing access routes. A councillor questioned the limited benefits for affected communities, while the developer promised a £10,000 annual community fund and officials highlighted the scheme’s capacity to power 18,000 homes. Final approval for the two largest projects rests with the energy secretary, as the developments form part of the UK’s drive to reach net zero by 2050.

Norfolk artist and campaigner Anna Mudeka said allegations that her annual music events at Waxham Summer Camp had led to unofficial beach raves were personally insulting and untrue. A North Norfolk District Council environmental protection officer cited complaints about intoxication, possible drug use, noise overruns and damage to dunes, but councillors unanimously approved temporary licences for two August events. The committee said the complaints were not fully verifiable and appeared to concern activity outside Mudeka's premises.

Maternity records for babies involved in the Lucy Letby case were withheld from the defence despite being seized by police. The prosecution’s chief medical expert said they were irrelevant, but other specialists argued they were essential for understanding potential causes of collapse or death. A review of one case suggested a birth‑related liver injury could explain the baby’s death rather than deliberate harm. Families also reported wider maternity and neonatal care failings at the Countess of Chester Hospital. The trust apologised and highlighted improvements, while the Crown Prosecution Service noted Letby’s convictions were upheld on appeal.